As we know, climate change is likely to have significant effect on weather patterns over the coming decades. One consequence of this could be a greater risk of flooding and erosion to our coastlines.

In 1999 a Shoreline Management Plan (SMP) was produced which set out the risks of flooding and coastal erosion for Poole and Christchurch Bays. A new revision of that plan (SMP2) is now underway and anyone with an interest in these issues is being invited to contribute.

Christchurch Council is working alongside neighbouring local authorities and other national organisations on the policies which will be needed to manage the risks over the next 100 years. A website has been set up at www.twobays.net and information leaflets are available from the Civic Offices, Christchurch Information Centre, the Libraries and other outlets throughout the Borough.

A questionaire which asks for your views on how the coastline should be managed is downloadable from the website or you can contact Steve Wooland, Senior Engineer (Flooding & Coastal Management) at the Council on 01202 495095 or email s.woolard@christchurch.gov.uk .